Most Abused Prescription Drugs for Anxiety [Infographic]

Anxiety and depression affect hundreds of thousands of people across the country. However, many people come to abuse anxiety medication due to its euphoric effects. Below, you will discover the most abused prescription drugs for anxiety that have reached epidemic proportions in America.

Common Anxiety Medication Abuse

Specifically, the two most abused prescription drugs for anxiety are Valium and Xanax. In fact, in 2002, 37.5 million Xanax prescriptions were written. In 2010, the number of ER visits for Xanax abuse reached over 125,000 people alone.

Valium, on the other hand, is also on the rise. Current estimates suggest that over two million Americans currently have an addiction to the drug. In 2006, over 20,000 people were hospitalized due to Valium addiction, abuse, or overdose.

Outside of Xanax and Valium, other prescription medications have high abuse potential, including Klonopin, Ativan, and Halcion.

Klonopin, Ativan, and Halcion

Klonopin, Ativan, and Halcion all hold a dangerous abuse potential. For example, Klonopin abuse is responsible for over 33,000 ER visits each year.

Ativan, however, is one of the three strongest benzodiazepines, along with Xanax and Halcion. Furthermore, Ativan hospital visits rose over 300 percent between 1998 and 2008.

Lastly, Halcion is a less common medication for insomnia and anxiety that has a high abuse potential. Additionally, up to 1.2 million Americans receive a prescription to Halcion each year. Based on these numbers, estimates suggest over 100,000 Halcion users misuse the medication, many going on to abuse the drug long-term.

Seek Help for the Most Abused Prescription Drugs for Anxiety

No matter which prescription drug abuse symptoms you face, you can receive the proper treatment to overcome abuse and addiction. Additionally, programs at Crest View Recovery Center will help you rediscover a life of excitement through sobriety. For example, our unique modalities include:

Each and every individual experiences addiction and abuse differently. Therefore, it’s vital that you receive treatment that addresses your specific needs and circumstances. At CVRC, we take pride in providing custom treatment plans that will find the root causes of your addiction.

Don’t allow your addiction to benzodiazepines take total control of your life. In fact, you can overcome abuse at CVRC. Our staff will be by your side each and every step of the way. To find your path to sobriety, contact us today at 866-327-2505.